As part of the Colombo Rubber Traders’ Association’s ongoing efforts to address key industry challenges and advocate for sustainable growth, the Office Bearers met with the Minister of Plantation and Community Infrastructure Hon. K.V. Samantha Vidyarathne on 11th March 2025.

During the meeting, the Minister acknowledged the significant challenges faced by the rubber industry, particularly in the context of the prevailing economic climate. While it was noted that not all issues could be resolved immediately, the Minister assured stakeholders that the ministry would review and address concerns that were within its current capacity.

However, the CRTA Chairman observed that establishing a sustained dialogue with the ministry may prove difficult, as neither the Minister nor the Secretary provided contact details despite being offered a business card by the Association.

Key issues discussed included the insufficient production of natural rubber in Sri Lanka, a concern shared by stakeholders across the value chain — including smallholders, TSR processors, and members of the Sri Lanka Association of Manufacturers and Exporters of Rubber Products (SLAMERP). As an immediate and practical measure, the importance of rain-guarding all existing plantations was emphasized. A concept paper and proposal for a $14 million grant from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to support this initiative were submitted for consideration.

The impact of changing weather patterns on rubber cultivation was also addressed, with suggestions to allocate land in drier regions, such as Vavuniya, to expand cultivation. Industry representatives, including Mr. Manoj Udugampola, expressed readiness to invest in developing 25,000 hectares of new rubber plantations through collaboration with Regional Plantation Companies (RPCs).

Another significant topic was the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), which poses compliance challenges, particularly for smallholders who account for 65–70% of local rubber supply. Many lack awareness and the resources required for compliance. The need for capacity-building and support frameworks was stressed.

The Environmental Protection License requirement — which mandates licensing for anyone producing over 50kg of RSS monthly — was deemed unrealistic for small-scale producers and flagged for review.

Concerns were also raised regarding the Rubber Research Institute (RRI), particularly the ongoing absence of a Director General, which has affected its operational effectiveness. While a representative from the Rubber Development Department (RDD) was present, their engagement during the meeting was minimal.

The meeting concluded with an appeal to the Minister for regular engagement with stakeholders to monitor progress and advance collaborative solutions. However, the response remained noncommittal, with the Minister stating that meetings would be arranged “as time permits.”

The Colombo Rubber Traders’ Association (CRTA) successfully held its 106th Annual General Meeting on Monday, June 16th, 2025, at the Board Room of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce.

During the business session, Mr. Harin de Silva was re-elected Chairman for the year 2025/2026, reaffirming members’ confidence in his leadership. Mr. Buddhi Gunasekara was announced as Vice Chairman for the term, elected by the Committee.

The following companies were elected to serve on the Committee for the year:

Buyer Representatives

• A.M. Rahim & Co. (Pvt) Limited
• Almar Trading Co. (Pte) Ltd
• C.W. Mackie PLC
• Eastern Merchants PLC
• Lalan Rubber (Pvt) Ltd
• Saheed & Company

Seller Representatives

• Balangoda Plantations PLC
• Horana Plantations PLC
• Kegalle Plantations PLC
• Kelani Valley Plantations PLC
• Kotagala Plantations PLC
• Pussellawa Plantations Ltd

Broker Representative

• Asia Siyaka Commodities PLC (nominated by the Colombo Brokers’ Association)

In addition to the elected members, representatives from the Planters’ Association of Ceylon, the Colombo Rubber Buyers’ Association, and other invited stakeholders, including Prof. Asoka Nugawela (Industry Expert), the Rubber Development Department, the Rubber Research Institute, and the Sri Lanka Association of Manufacturers and Exporters of Rubber Products (SLAMERP), were also in attendance.

The Association remains committed to fostering collaboration among stakeholders, promoting best practices, and supporting the continued growth and sustainability of Sri Lanka’s rubber industry.

The Colombo Rubber Traders’ Association (CRTA) successfully held the post-business session of its 106th Annual General Meeting on Friday, 4th July 2025, at the Ballroom of the Hilton Colombo. The evening gathered prominent industry leaders, stakeholders, and distinguished guests in a spirit of collaboration and optimism for the future of Sri Lanka’s rubber sector.

The event commenced with a keynote address by the Chief Guest, Dr. Kulatunga Rajapaksa, Emeritus Managing Director of DSI Samson Group (Pvt) Ltd, who offered reflections on the evolution of Sri Lanka’s natural rubber industry and its critical role in the nation’s economy.

Mr. Harin de Silva, Chairman of the CRTA, delivered an impassioned address highlighting both the significant achievements and urgent challenges facing the industry. He spoke candidly about declining production levels, climate vulnerabilities, and the imperative for a comprehensive rubber industry renaissance. Notably, he announced CRTA’s collaboration with the Asian Development Bank to secure a USD 14 million grant for rain guarding initiatives, aimed at protecting Sri Lanka’s rubber plantations and stabilizing farmer incomes.

Mr. de Silva also underscored the importance of positioning Sri Lankan rubber as a premium, deforestation-free product compliant with emerging global regulations such as the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). He called for unified action across government and private sectors, proposing the establishment of a Sri Lanka Rubber Industry Council to drive cohesive strategy and innovation.

The Guest of Honour, Dr. Rohan Fernando, Managing Director of Elpitiya Plantations PLC, addressed the gathering with valuable insights into sustainable plantation practices and the future of rubber cultivation in non-traditional regions, emphasizing the sector’s potential to contribute to rural development and national economic resilience.

The evening included an official adoption of the CRTA’s Annual Report and Audited Financial Statements for the year 2024/2025, as well as the announcement of newly approved By-Laws and Conditions for the sale and purchase of field latex rubber through various channels.

In a heartfelt tribute, the Association observed a moment of silence to honour the late Mr. Tommy Ellawala and Mr. Bathiya Bulumulla, who passed away earlier this year. Mementoes were presented to Mrs. Bulumulla and family in recognition of Mr. Bulumulla’s visionary leadership and lifelong service to Sri Lanka’s rubber industry. A memento was also awarded to Mr. Anura Edirisinghe, honouring his remarkable 50 years of dedicated service to the natural rubber trade.

Sponsors who supported the AGM were warmly acknowledged, including Eastern Merchants PLC, Almar Trading, C.W. Mackie PLC, Colombo Brokers’ Association, Yokohama TWS, Global Rubber Industries, MAC Supply Chain Solutions (Private) Limited, and Ansell Lanka (Pvt) Ltd.

The event concluded on a lively note with a raffle draw, adding a celebratory touch to an evening dedicated to reflection, recognition, and a bold vision for the future of Sri Lanka’s rubber industry.

The CRTA extends its gratitude to all participants, sponsors, and partners whose commitment ensures the continued vitality and growth of the sector.

The Colombo Rubber Traders’ Association (CRTA) successfully held its Business session of the 105th Annual General Meeting on Monday, 24th June 2024, at the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce. The meeting convened stakeholders from across the rubber industry to reflect on the past year’s achievements, deliberate on key matters, and confirm new leadership for the year ahead.

The business session commenced with the confirmation of the Minutes of the 104th AGM, followed by the adoption of the Annual Report and Audited Financial Statements for the fiscal year 2023/2024. These were unanimously approved by the membership, affirming the Association’s transparent governance and robust financial performance.

Outgoing Chairman Mr. Manoj Udugampola addressed the gathering, reflecting on the progress made during his tenure, highlighting the initiatives undertaken to strengthen industry collaboration and enhance regulatory awareness.

The election of office bearers for 2024/2025 followed:

The election of office bearers for 2024/2025 followed:

• Chairman: Mr. Harin de Silva
• Vice Chairman: Mr. Buddhi Gunasekara

The Committee for 2024/2025 was also formally announced, comprising representatives from leading buyer and seller organizations, brokers, and invited industry stakeholders. These included:

Buyer Representatives:

• A.M. Rahim & Co. Ltd
• Almar Trading Co. (Pvt) Ltd
• C.W. Mackie PLC
• Eastern Merchants PLC
• Lalan Rubber (Pvt) Ltd
• Shums & Co. Ltd

Seller Representatives:

• Balangoda Plantations PLC
• Horana Plantations
• Kegalle Plantations PLC
• Kelani Valley Plantations PLC
• Kotagala Plantations PLC
• Pussellawa Plantations Ltd

Broker Representative:

• Forbes & Walker Commodity Brokers (Pvt) Ltd (Nominated by the Colombo Brokers’ Association)

By Invitation:

• The Planters’ Association of Ceylon
• The Colombo Rubber Buyers’ Association
• J.D. and Sons (Pvt) Ltd (Non-CBA Broker)
• Prof. Asoka Nugawela (Industry Expert)
• Director General, Rubber Development Department

In his inaugural address, newly elected Chairman Mr. Harin de Silva emphasized the need for resilience and adaptability in the face of evolving global trade dynamics and regulatory shifts. He reaffirmed CRTA’s commitment to industry advocacy, sustainability, and stakeholder engagement.

The Association also confirmed the reappointment of M/s Edirisinghe & Co. as Auditors for the upcoming year.

With no other business raised, the meeting concluded with a vote of thanks and appreciation for the outgoing committee and continued support from members.

The CRTA’s 105th AGM reinforced the Association’s ongoing role as a unifying force in Sri Lanka’s rubber sector, promoting excellence, collaboration, and growth.

The Colombo Rubber Traders’ Association (CRTA) held its Post Business Session of the 105th Annual General Meeting on Friday, 12th July 2024, at the Grand Ballroom of the Marino Beach Hotel, Colombo. The event brought together key figures from the rubber industry, reaffirming its continued relevance and central role in Sri Lanka’s economic landscape.

The Chief Guest, Mr. Mohan Pandithage, Chairman and Chief Executive of Hayleys PLC, and the Guest of Honour, Mr. Chinthaka Wegapitiya, CEO of LAUGFS Corporation (Rubber) Ltd, were warmly welcomed by the Office Bearers, Mr. Harin de Silva (Chairman) and Mr. Buddhi Gunasekera (Vice Chairman). The evening commenced with the traditional lighting of the oil lamp and a formal introduction of the dignitaries.

Following the national anthem, the compere delivered a welcome address, providing an overview of CRTA’s milestones and ongoing initiatives. The keynote address by Mr. Mohan Pandithage highlighted the global opportunities and responsibilities facing Sri Lanka’s rubber sector, with a call for renewed private-public collaboration.

Chairman Mr. Harin de Silva then delivered his address, outlining the Association’s achievements over the past year and its future direction. The Guest of Honour, Mr. Chinthaka Wegapitiya, in his address, underscored the need for innovation, sustainability, and market diversification.

Key announcements included the confirmation of office bearers and the introduction of the newly elected committee for 2024/2025, comprising representatives from across the rubber value chain.

The evening concluded with a vote of thanks by Vice Chairman Mr. Buddhi Gunasekera, who acknowledged the support of stakeholders, sponsors, and organizers.

The 105th AGM served not only as a formal gathering but also as a platform for strategic dialogue and industry networking, further strengthening CRTA’s mission of advancing Sri Lanka’s rubber industry.

As part of its ongoing commitment to industry sustainability and regulatory preparedness, the Colombo Rubber Traders’ Association (CRTA) conducted a focused Awareness Program on the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) for stakeholders in Sri Lanka’s natural rubber sector. The session was held with the objective of equipping industry participants with the knowledge and tools necessary to ensure compliance with this significant regulation.

The session was led by Mr. Manoj Udugampola, Consultant on EUDR Compliance to the CRTA. Mr. Udugampola provided a comprehensive overview of the EUDR framework, explaining its objectives to curb global deforestation by mandating that commodities, including natural rubber, imported into the European Union must not be linked to deforestation or forest degradation.

The program emphasized the critical compliance requirements, including maintaining accurate geo-location data, supply chain transparency, and proper documentation to support EUDR conformity. Mr. Udugampola stressed the urgency for Sri Lankan exporters and producers to align swiftly with EUDR protocols to preserve market access and uphold the country’s position in the global rubber industry.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from a broad cross-section of industry stakeholders, including exporters, plantation representatives, and regulatory personnel. An interactive Q&A session allowed participants to address their concerns, clarify procedural challenges, and gain clarity on the evolving regulatory expectations.

In his closing remarks, Mr. Harin de Silva, Chairman of the CRTA, thanked Mr. Udugampola for his insights and commended the participants for their proactive engagement. He reiterated CRTA’s role in guiding its members through complex international compliance requirements and emphasized the strategic value of sustainability in securing Sri Lanka’s competitiveness.

Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Buddhi Gunasekera, Vice Chairman of the CRTA, urged all stakeholders to prioritize EUDR compliance and called on the industry to ensure readiness by the deadline of 31st October 2024.

This timely initiative reflects CRTA’s unwavering dedication to industry development, global standards alignment, and sustainable rubber trade practices.

The Colombo Rubber Traders’ Association (CRTA) held its 104th Annual General Meeting on Friday, 21st July 2023, at Marino Beach Colombo. The event, saw significant participation from key industry stakeholders, underscoring its importance in Sri Lanka’s rubber industry calendar.

The Chief Guest, Hon. Shehan Semasinghe, State Minister of Finance, and the Guest of Honour, Mr. M.S. Rahim, were warmly welcomed by Mr. Manoj Udugampola, Chairman, and Mr. Harin de Silva, Vice Chairman of the CRTA. 

Mr. Manoj Udugampola opened the AGM, acknowledging the contributions of attendees and highlighting the rubber industry’s significance in Sri Lanka’s economy. Hon. Shehan Semasinghe emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting the rubber industry through economic and policy measures, stressing the importance of innovation and sustainability. Mr. M.S. Rahim provided insights on industry trends and challenges, calling for cohesive efforts to drive growth and modernization.

The Annual Report and Audited Statement of Accounts for 2022/2023 were adopted, followed by the reappointment of Mr. Manoj Udugampola as Chairman and Mr. Harin de Silva as Vice Chairman for 2023/2024. The committee members representing various buyer, seller entities, and brokers were also announced.

A highlight of the evening was the launch of the new CRTA logo and website, symbolizing CRTA’s commitment to modernization and enhanced member engagement.

The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks from Mr. Harin de Silva, expressing gratitude to participants, speakers, and organizers. The 104th AGM of the CRTA ended on a high note, with attendees appreciating the informative sessions and networking opportunities.

The Colombo Rubber Traders’ Association (CRTA) hosted an insightful session with Mr. Lakshman Abeysekera, Chairman of the Rubber Research Institute of Sri Lanka. The event, which welcomed CRTA members, provided a comprehensive overview of the Institute’s ongoing initiatives and support for the rubber plantation sector in Sri Lanka.

Mr. Abeysekera discussed key areas including the PESTA project, research and development of high-yielding clones, and the Institute’s analytical services. The session highlighted the vital role of the Rubber Research Institute in advancing the industry through innovation and strategic support.

CRTA members found the session highly informative and valuable for understanding the latest developments and opportunities within the rubber industry.

The CRTA committee held discussions with Hon. Shehan Semasinghe (MP), State Minister of Finance, regarding the implementation of VAT policy. Following these discussions, the Inland Revenue Department committed to address the issues raised by the association providing appropriate solutions.

The Colombo Rubber Traders’ Association (CRTA) held a crucial meeting for CFOs and Financial Managers of Sellers, including RPCs and Rubber Brokers on 12th January 2024, to discuss new invoicing and related issues concerning Value Added Tax (VAT).

The session took place at Asia Siyaka Commodities PLC, with representatives addressing specific concerns and seeking clarifications on VAT matters. This initiative underscores CRTA’s commitment to ensuring its members are well-informed and compliant with the latest tax regulations.

The Colombo Rubber Traders’ Association (CRTA) hosted an informative session on the European Union Deforestation Regulations (EUDR) with Mr. Lanka Subasinghe, Key Commodity Director at Michelin Lanka Pvt Ltd. The event took place on 22nd January 2024 at the Board Room of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce.

As the EUDR will come into effect on 30th December 2024, this regulation aims to achieve deforestation-free practices, specifically targeting rubber. The CRTA recognizes the significant impact these regulations will have on its members, including exporters, buyers, and producers who engage with the European market.

Mr. Subasinghe, along with his team, provided valuable insights and detailed information on the EUDR, having conducted extensive work on this matter for Michelin Lanka. The session aimed to educate CRTA members on the implications and requirements of the EUDR, ensuring they are well-prepared for the upcoming changes.

The presentation by Mr. Subasinghe was well-received, with members appreciating the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the EUDR and its potential impact on their operations.